Lexus raises bar for entry-level hybrids
San Antonio Express-News
Friday, July 31, 2009
Lexus brings an entry-level luxury hybrid to market next month, the first gasoline-electric model from Toyota’s premium brand that is not based on a vehicle that’s also offered with gasoline-only power.
The all-new HS 250h, which bears no relationship to the Lexus IS 250 models, is based on the architecture of Toyota’s hybrid-only model, the popular Prius hatchback.
Mark Elias/Bloomberg News
The 2010 Lexus HS 250h is powered by a four-cylinder engine that puts out 187 horsepower when combined with its hybrid motor. It gets an EPA estimated 35 mpg city and 34 highway.
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With a starting price of $34,200 (plus $875 freight), the HS 250h offers a full measure of luxury not available in the Prius, and it also comes with a trunk rather than the hatchback-style cargo area of the Toyota hybrid.
The HS 250h’s 2.4-liter Atkinson cycle gasoline engine and accompanying electric drive motor are similar to those in the Toyota Camry hybrid, as is the continuously variable automatic transmission.
Total combined horsepower of the gasoline engine and electric motor is 187, compared with 134 for the Prius.
EPA fuel-economy estimates are 35 mpg city/34 highway, which is close to the slightly heavier Camry’s 33 city/34 highway. But that’s way below the 51/48 of the redesigned 2010 Prius.
Still, this is a big move forward in fuel economy for the Lexus line, and the first four-cylinder engine ever offered in one of the tony brand’s vehicles. The next-most-fuel-efficient Lexus vehicle is the IS 250 sedan, whose 2.5-liter V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission deliver EPA ratings of 21 city/29 highway.
Bringing a dedicated, entry-level luxury hybrid to market (the first automaker to do so) makes sense, as Lexus sales have fallen sharply along with other luxury brands during the recession, and even people who spend this much money on their cars want to be able to save money on gasoline if they can.
Lexus says its research showed that 60 percent of luxury-car buyers would choose a hybrid if it were available in the style of vehicle they’re seeking.
There already are three other hybrids in the Lexus lineup, but they’re all based on models that were introduced first, and still are sold, as gasoline-only vehicles. Those are the RX 450h crossover and the GS 450h and LS 600h sedans, with prices ranging from $41,660 for the RX to a whopping $106,035 for the LS. The GS is in the middle, at $56,550.
With options, the LS 600h can run as high as about $130,000, making it the highest-cost vehicle Toyota has ever sold, and the only one with a price tag in six figures.
Like the Prius, the HS has room for five people, but it’s a bit more comfortable inside thanks to some extra interior space and the luxury accouterments.
It’s also loaded with gadgetry, although much of that same equipment is offered in the Prius, as well, which can run the sticker price of the Prius nearly as high as that of the entry HS 250h.
Among the available gadgetry are a head-up speedometer display on the windshield, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a 190-degree front-view monitor, adaptive cruise control and a navigation system with real-time traffic and weather information.
The HS also continues the green tradition of the Prius, with 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than found in the average gasoline-powered new car, Toyota says.
“The creation of a dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle speaks volumes about Lexus’ commitment to our customers and hybrid technology,” Lexus General Manager Mark Templin said recently in announcing pricing for the new model.
“Forward-thinking, well-informed entry-luxury consumers are seeking a social statement and technology with a clear benefit in their next car,” he said. “HS 250h delivers this with its unique package and modern luxury that fits their advanced lifestyle.”
Among standard features are leather seats; a 10-way power driver’s seat and eight-way power front passenger seat, and a 10-speaker, 137-watt audio system with six-disc CD changer.
Safety features include 10 air bags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control and active front headrests.
Extras on the Premium model include heated/ventilated front seats with semi-aniline leather; 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; rain-sensing windshield wipers; heated self-dimming outside mirrors, and wood interior trim.
As with the Prius, there are four hybrid drive modes: Normal, Power, Eco and EV. The EV setting allows the vehicle to be forced into electric-only mode for low-speed driving over short distances without the gasoline engine coming on.
The base models can be equipped with a Touring Package that brings heated front seats; adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam switching and built-in washers; and 18-inch alloy wheels.
A Technology Package, offered only on the Premium model, adds the head-up display; the Lane Keep Assist system with lane departure warning; the Pre-Collision System with radar cruise control; Lexus’ Driver Monitor, which helps to detect when the driver becomes drowsy; and Intuitive Park Assist.
Also available on the Premium model is a Mark Levinson Surround Sound audio system with 350 watts and 15 speakers, and Lexus’ Park Assist system.
An in-car safety communications/telematics system similar to General Motors’ OnStar also will be offered. The system offers automatic collision notification to live operators, just as with OnStar, among many other features.
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